Mercedes-Benz Recall 16V-603: Electronic stability control (ESC)

Affected: 2016 Mercedes-Benz C300, 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. Filed with NHTSA on August 16, 2016, covering about 62 vehicles.

The problem

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2016 GLC 300 SUV, GLC 300 4Matic SUV, C300 Sedan and C300 4Matic vehicles manufactured February 8, 2016, to May 18, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) control unit that may have been damaged before being installed.

The risk

A damaged ESP control unit may inadvertently activate the stability control altering the vehicle's path. Additionally, the electronic parking brake may not function. Either condition may increase the risk of a crash.

The fix

MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ESP Hydraulic control units, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in October 2016. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign16V-603 (16V603000)
Manufacturer number2016090002
ManufacturerMercedes-Benz USA, LLC
ComponentElectronic stability control (ESC)
Report dateAugust 16, 2016
Owners notifiedOctober 11, 2016
Vehicles affected62
Initiated byManufacturer

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the stability & traction control

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 16V-603 repair free?

Yes. Mercedes-Benz dealers will fix the problem at no cost: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ESP Hydraulic control units, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in October 2016. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 62 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.